How to Replace a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a big problem. Contacting your local dealer or locksmith is usually the best option to begin. To create a replacement key, they'll need proof of ownership and the old key.
But, this isn't always the most economical way to go.
Traditional Keys
Metal keys for cars were the most commonly used. They have grooves that fit into slots in the ignition. The key is then placed into the ignition and turned to start the car. It is cheaper to replace a traditional ignition key than other kinds.
You can have a classic key made by an automotive locksmith while you wait. They'll need your vehicle's make and model and the year of its manufacture. The locksmith may also need to present proof of ownership to verify that you are authorized to purchase a new key.
Transponder keys are more common in vehicles that are newer. They're more expensive to replace however, they are more secure from theft. The head of a transponder key contains an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer system to make sure that only the correct key can start it.
The chips inside modern transponder keys are usually programmed with a specific code when the car is sold for the first time. Some of them use "rolling codes" that transmit an individual code each time it is used, making it hard for thieves to duplicate them. If you own a modern vehicle with a transponder key it is recommended to keep it in a safe place.
Transponder keys last longer than standard metal keys, but they are more costly to replace in the case of an eventual loss. If you lose a transponder keys, you'll need to contact the dealership to obtain the replacement. You'll have to provide your VIN (a 17-digit number) which will tell the dealer which car it is compatible with.
You'll also need to provide the serial number of your vehicle. This number can be found on a sticker that is placed on the driver's door or on an owner's manual. It is important to keep these numbers in your car since they can help locate your car in the event that it gets lost or stolen.
Transponder Keys
Your key could contain an electronic transponder if the car was manufactured within the past 20 years. These tiny bits of technology are programmed to your particular car, so that only its owner is able to start it. Your transmission will lock your car if it detects the key isn't matching the code. This is to ensure that only the owner can start the vehicle.
These keys are ideal for your car as they can deter theft of cars. In the past, thieves of cars could just touch two wires together and use them to start your car in the process known as hot wiring. However, when cars began using transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal them since the thief needs to have the right key to transmit the signal required to start your car.
If you have traditional car keys and lose it, you can have a new one cut right on the spot by a locksmith local to you. The old key will be deleted from the system of your vehicle. On the other hand, if you have an electronic transponder or fob key, you'll have to visit the dealership to get it replaced. The dealer will require your VIN (Vehicle ID Number) to get the correct key for your vehicle.
This is because they will be required to verify that the key they're requesting for you is paired with your specific vehicle in order to start it and open your doors. To obtain a replacement key, you'll have to provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This type of replacement can be a little more expensive, but it's worth it if you think about the possibility that your car key was stolen. If you are concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, check to determine if it's covered by your warranty or car insurance. If not, you'll need to bring your car to a dealer to have it towed, and get the key from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most recent type of car key is designed to function like an electronic remote, allowing motorists to open doors and start engines without needing to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These fobs are also known as keys that do not require keyless entry or remote control keys. They are usually less expensive to replace than older, more traditional models. However, as with any other piece of consumer technology they're not a guarantee of durability. They're also easy to lose and they can cease to function over time as they get moved around in your pocket or purse.
Fobs emit a digital code that allows drivers to open and start their vehicle. When the fob is tapped on the car's sensor, the code is read and the doors will open and the engine is started. Certain fobs have additional features like an option to summon the car (similar in function to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob, make sure that your keys aren't locked in bags or purses that is secured. If they're not in your possession, look through your day and consider where you may have lost them. Check your pockets, in bags that you had with you, and on countertops or other surfaces. You might be able to locate your keys where you put them, or where you put them in your bag when you went to purchase something.
You can purchase replacement keys on the internet, however they must be programmed for your vehicle. Some, like the ones used by Audi and Subaru, require visiting a dealership to have them reprogrammed to match your particular key. The good news is that roadside assistance organizations like AAA can often help with this, too.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob bought elsewhere for less than they would charge for doing the same thing at the dealer. Some key fobs can be replaced with just the outer shell, leaving the electronics in good working in good working order. Check your car insurance policy or auto club membership to find out whether you have coverage that will cover this.
Chipped Keys
In the past few years, automobiles have become more more advanced in terms of technology. This has resulted in more sophisticated keys. These keys can't be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a specific machine. It is more expensive to replace keys that are lost in the car with chip.
If you lose your transponder chip or it is stolen from you, then you will need to contact the local dealership to request a replacement. lost my key is because they keep a record of your security information and can pair the new chip with your car without much hassle. The process can take a few days however, as the dealer will have to purchase the key from the manufacturer and it could take some time for it to arrive.
A professional locksmith can create an exact duplicate of your transponder keys. The process is more complicated than simply going to the dealership, but it will save you a significant amount of money in the end. You'll need your vehicle's VIN number to get a duplicate. This number can be found on your insurance policy, or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
You will also need an exact copy of your key that you can bring to the locksmith. The locksmith can match the cuts made by the key. If you are unable to locate the key you used to have look in the trunk or other areas. Examine your bags and pockets. You don't know if you put your keys down somewhere or if you accidentally knocked them out of your bag when trying to find something other.
If you are unable to locate your car keys, then you should immediately start looking for them. Start by checking to make sure you didn't leave keys at home or in the office. Then, take a close look at your day to determine if they may be missing. After you've inspected your bags and empty your pockets, it's time to use more sophisticated search techniques.